Suicidal Ideation Therapists in Frederick, MD
Most of my clients aren't broken—they're exhausted. They're the people everyone else relies on, until they realize they need support too. They come to therapy seeking relief from stress, burnout, relationship challenges, intimacy concerns, and the pressure of holding it all together. Our team offers a safe, affirming space where clients can slow down, untangle what's weighing them down, and develop practical tools to create healthier relationships, greater balance, and a life that feels more like their own.
Most of my clients aren't broken—they're exhausted. They're the people everyone else relies on, until they realize they need support too. They come to therapy seeking relief from stress, burnout, relationship challenges, intimacy concerns, and the pressure of holding it all together. Our team offers a safe, affirming space where clients can slow down, untangle what's weighing them down, and develop practical tools to create healthier relationships, greater balance, and a life that feels more like their own.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland who works primarily with teens and adults, and am dedicated to helping people build lives of meaning, connection, and agency.
Too often, our lives get derailed by painful experiences that leave us feeling aimless, hopeless, disconnected and/or stuck. And we try to cope with the painful aftermath in the best way we know how—perhaps we keep busy, try to achieve, try to think our way through, or use methods to distract, punish ourselves or numb out. While these may offer some short-term relief, we find we have to organize more of our lives around something that feels inescapable.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland who works primarily with teens and adults, and am dedicated to helping people build lives of meaning, connection, and agency.
Too often, our lives get derailed by painful experiences that leave us feeling aimless, hopeless, disconnected and/or stuck. And we try to cope with the painful aftermath in the best way we know how—perhaps we keep busy, try to achieve, try to think our way through, or use methods to distract, punish ourselves or numb out. While these may offer some short-term relief, we find we have to organize more of our lives around something that feels inescapable.
Melinda is a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience providing therapy for adolescents and adults to help improve functioning and relieve distress. I have worked with a multitude of individuals experiencing a broad range of challenges, and what I enjoy most is finding strengths and discovering what it is that means the most to each individual. Through collaborative, client-focused care it is my goal to help each person identify underlying issues, troublesome thinking patterns, and problematic behaviors to address in order to promote growth and change.
Melinda is a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience providing therapy for adolescents and adults to help improve functioning and relieve distress. I have worked with a multitude of individuals experiencing a broad range of challenges, and what I enjoy most is finding strengths and discovering what it is that means the most to each individual. Through collaborative, client-focused care it is my goal to help each person identify underlying issues, troublesome thinking patterns, and problematic behaviors to address in order to promote growth and change.
I am currently accepting new clients! I am excited to help support you, your relationships, and your families from an affirming, sex positive, and culturally sensitive lens. I love to work with people of color and the queer community. I am committed to fostering healing and empowerment through a fat liberation/HAES (Health at Every Size) framework. I am passionate about working with relationships of all kinds and enjoy supporting clients in Kink and Ethically Non-Monogomous/Poly Relationships.
I am currently accepting new clients! I am excited to help support you, your relationships, and your families from an affirming, sex positive, and culturally sensitive lens. I love to work with people of color and the queer community. I am committed to fostering healing and empowerment through a fat liberation/HAES (Health at Every Size) framework. I am passionate about working with relationships of all kinds and enjoy supporting clients in Kink and Ethically Non-Monogomous/Poly Relationships.
Life can be stressful, down right overwhelming at times. “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”-Helen Keller. During these times when things become too difficult to manage on our own, counseling can help with learning healthier ways to cope, expressing deep emotions in a safe environment, working on goals, and reaching your potential. My years of experience related to the field are focused on assisting clients with trauma processing, developing a sense of purpose, disordered eating, reducing anxiety, and improving self-esteem.
Life can be stressful, down right overwhelming at times. “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.”-Helen Keller. During these times when things become too difficult to manage on our own, counseling can help with learning healthier ways to cope, expressing deep emotions in a safe environment, working on goals, and reaching your potential. My years of experience related to the field are focused on assisting clients with trauma processing, developing a sense of purpose, disordered eating, reducing anxiety, and improving self-esteem.
I am a licensed master social worker (LMSW) with 10 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis, grief and loss, substance use concerns, domestic violence, and issues related to abuse and neglect. I take a client-centered approach and am deeply committed to advocacy, social justice, and supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments.
I am a licensed master social worker (LMSW) with 10 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis, grief and loss, substance use concerns, domestic violence, and issues related to abuse and neglect. I take a client-centered approach and am deeply committed to advocacy, social justice, and supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments.
Hello! As a clinical psychologist (PhD) trained at Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania, I help with challenges such as anxiety and trauma. However, I specialize in treating personality disorders (e.g., borderline, narcissistic), sleep issues (e.g., insomnia, sleep paralysis), and complex, rare, or treatment-resistant conditions. Beyond therapy, I offer in-depth diagnostic assessments to clarify problems and facilitate effective treatment planning. I also provide ongoing supervision and therapy to fellow therapists. Licensed in Maryland and Virginia with PSYPACT, I can deliver secure telehealth to most US states and DC.
Hello! As a clinical psychologist (PhD) trained at Penn State and the University of Pennsylvania, I help with challenges such as anxiety and trauma. However, I specialize in treating personality disorders (e.g., borderline, narcissistic), sleep issues (e.g., insomnia, sleep paralysis), and complex, rare, or treatment-resistant conditions. Beyond therapy, I offer in-depth diagnostic assessments to clarify problems and facilitate effective treatment planning. I also provide ongoing supervision and therapy to fellow therapists. Licensed in Maryland and Virginia with PSYPACT, I can deliver secure telehealth to most US states and DC.
Betsy is trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic therapies. She enjoys helping clients reduce physical and emotional stress, release old burdens, guilt and shame, improve self-esteem and vitality, and heal from old trauma. She finds these therapies to be transformative, healing, and life changing. With more than thirty years' experience practicing psychotherapy, Betsy holds a master's degree in counseling psychology, Keene, NH and a bachelor's degree in Transpersonal Psychology, Burlington College, Vermont.
Betsy is trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic therapies. She enjoys helping clients reduce physical and emotional stress, release old burdens, guilt and shame, improve self-esteem and vitality, and heal from old trauma. She finds these therapies to be transformative, healing, and life changing. With more than thirty years' experience practicing psychotherapy, Betsy holds a master's degree in counseling psychology, Keene, NH and a bachelor's degree in Transpersonal Psychology, Burlington College, Vermont.
Most people come to me with disordered eating, they diet often, or when they feel insecure in their body. Client may also feel anxious and have difficulty controlling their worries or feel depressed, sad, or "in a funk." It takes tremendous courage to reach out for support and I can work with you each step of the way. Therapy doesn't have to be scary... I guide clients to manage their problems, develop strategies to cope with stress, and cultivate self-awareness. If you're looking for a safe, nonjudgmental place to process your thoughts and feelings... please reach out.
Most people come to me with disordered eating, they diet often, or when they feel insecure in their body. Client may also feel anxious and have difficulty controlling their worries or feel depressed, sad, or "in a funk." It takes tremendous courage to reach out for support and I can work with you each step of the way. Therapy doesn't have to be scary... I guide clients to manage their problems, develop strategies to cope with stress, and cultivate self-awareness. If you're looking for a safe, nonjudgmental place to process your thoughts and feelings... please reach out.
Rachel Hansberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
8 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging, and at times, it can feel like the purpose of it is unclear. If you've ever felt lost, uncertain about navigating the twists and turns of life, know that you’re not alone. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness can make it difficult to see a clear path forward and to feel connected to your purpose. I am here to support you on your journey. My goal is to walk alongside you through your struggles, providing a safe, supportive space to process past and present pain, and address the symptoms that may be holding you back.
Life can be challenging, and at times, it can feel like the purpose of it is unclear. If you've ever felt lost, uncertain about navigating the twists and turns of life, know that you’re not alone. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness can make it difficult to see a clear path forward and to feel connected to your purpose. I am here to support you on your journey. My goal is to walk alongside you through your struggles, providing a safe, supportive space to process past and present pain, and address the symptoms that may be holding you back.
Have you noticed that your child is struggling with anxiety, or just not acting like themselves? Maybe you have tried everything, and yet their anxiety or behavior just seem to be getting worse...
As a therapist and professional school counselor, I know that every parent wants their child to feel loved, understood, and supported. And with over a decade of experience working in public education, I understand how valuable it is to view each child through the lens of their strengths. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where your child can get help, through my direct and genuine approach to counseling.
Have you noticed that your child is struggling with anxiety, or just not acting like themselves? Maybe you have tried everything, and yet their anxiety or behavior just seem to be getting worse...
As a therapist and professional school counselor, I know that every parent wants their child to feel loved, understood, and supported. And with over a decade of experience working in public education, I understand how valuable it is to view each child through the lens of their strengths. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where your child can get help, through my direct and genuine approach to counseling.
I specialize in providing psychotherapy to young people, age eight up through the life cycle to adults. With 30+ years experience, I understand the tremendous level of courage needed by you---to ask for help. I have helped clients like you who may have struggled with depression and anxiety, eating disorders, sexual abuse, and, other issues impacting relationships. In my tranquil office, I provide a supportive space where you can comfortably discuss your concerns. Together we can challenge your concerns impacting your daily living. I am a Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners Approved Supervisor.
I specialize in providing psychotherapy to young people, age eight up through the life cycle to adults. With 30+ years experience, I understand the tremendous level of courage needed by you---to ask for help. I have helped clients like you who may have struggled with depression and anxiety, eating disorders, sexual abuse, and, other issues impacting relationships. In my tranquil office, I provide a supportive space where you can comfortably discuss your concerns. Together we can challenge your concerns impacting your daily living. I am a Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners Approved Supervisor.
I am a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist who works with children, teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship stress. Drawing on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based, holistic approach, I help clients build practical skills for emotion regulation, communication, and resilience. With the younger clients, I uses play therapy as a way for youth to express and strengthen coping strategies.
I am a compassionate, trauma-informed therapist who works with children, teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship stress. Drawing on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based, holistic approach, I help clients build practical skills for emotion regulation, communication, and resilience. With the younger clients, I uses play therapy as a way for youth to express and strengthen coping strategies.
My ideal clients are couples and individuals, typically in their 20's through 60's, who are seeking biblically grounded support for their relationships and personal growth. Many come for premarital counseling or couples therapy, hoping to strengthen their marriage with faith-centered communication, conflict resolution, and deeper emotional connection. I also work with individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, or personal struggles who want to align their healing with Christian values.
My ideal clients are couples and individuals, typically in their 20's through 60's, who are seeking biblically grounded support for their relationships and personal growth. Many come for premarital counseling or couples therapy, hoping to strengthen their marriage with faith-centered communication, conflict resolution, and deeper emotional connection. I also work with individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, or personal struggles who want to align their healing with Christian values.
My expertise lies in working with young adolescents through adults, encompassing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, and life transitions. I firmly believe in the transformative power of therapy and strive to provide a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
My expertise lies in working with young adolescents through adults, encompassing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues, and life transitions. I firmly believe in the transformative power of therapy and strive to provide a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
A clinical social worker with a strong emphasis on the healing power of a therapeutic relationship, I take pride in my ability to create and maintain an environment tailored to each unique individual. I am curious and creative in my approach. Clients appreciate my ability to be direct and nonjudgmental. I draw on humanistic, cognitive, and mindfulness techniques. I enjoy jungian approach and the emphasis of personal choice in our life outcome. I primarily utilize CBT and narrative therapeutic modalities.
A clinical social worker with a strong emphasis on the healing power of a therapeutic relationship, I take pride in my ability to create and maintain an environment tailored to each unique individual. I am curious and creative in my approach. Clients appreciate my ability to be direct and nonjudgmental. I draw on humanistic, cognitive, and mindfulness techniques. I enjoy jungian approach and the emphasis of personal choice in our life outcome. I primarily utilize CBT and narrative therapeutic modalities.
So many people feel misunderstood, isolated, afraid, angry, or depressed. Many have experienced things that cause them pain or deep confusion. I believe that providing a comfortable, nonjudgmental place can be the beginning of relief from this pain. I also believe it can be important to go beyond this and provide specialized treatment that addresses my clients' unique needs. I have worked for several years with adolescents, men, and others who oftentimes do not feel heard. I see change happen everyday; if it might be time for change or healing in your life contact me and let's get started.
So many people feel misunderstood, isolated, afraid, angry, or depressed. Many have experienced things that cause them pain or deep confusion. I believe that providing a comfortable, nonjudgmental place can be the beginning of relief from this pain. I also believe it can be important to go beyond this and provide specialized treatment that addresses my clients' unique needs. I have worked for several years with adolescents, men, and others who oftentimes do not feel heard. I see change happen everyday; if it might be time for change or healing in your life contact me and let's get started.
If you have trauma and experience PTSD symptoms such as hypervigilance, feelings of emptiness, hopelessness and/or abandonment, nightmares, flashbacks, dissociation and ongoing anxiety, fear and depression, please reach out to me. I specialize exclusively in trauma therapies (such as EMDR and Brainspotting) that reset the fight-or-flight response in the brain and reduce symptoms. I also specialize in working with psychedelic therapies (ketamine and plant medicine integration) for whole person healing - body, mind and spirit. Utilizing psychedelic medicines are not required to work with me, however.
If you have trauma and experience PTSD symptoms such as hypervigilance, feelings of emptiness, hopelessness and/or abandonment, nightmares, flashbacks, dissociation and ongoing anxiety, fear and depression, please reach out to me. I specialize exclusively in trauma therapies (such as EMDR and Brainspotting) that reset the fight-or-flight response in the brain and reduce symptoms. I also specialize in working with psychedelic therapies (ketamine and plant medicine integration) for whole person healing - body, mind and spirit. Utilizing psychedelic medicines are not required to work with me, however.
Looking for therapy that’s actually for women and grounded in LGBTQ+ affirming, feminist values? If you’re exhausted from overthinking, people-pleasing, and holding everything together, welcome home.
I work with women navigating anxiety, burnout, people-pleasing, trauma, and relationship challenges. You may struggle to set boundaries, quiet your inner critic, or feel like you’ve lost your sense of self. Therapy can help you feel more grounded, confident, and reconnected to your voice, your body, and your inner wisdom.
Looking for therapy that’s actually for women and grounded in LGBTQ+ affirming, feminist values? If you’re exhausted from overthinking, people-pleasing, and holding everything together, welcome home.
I work with women navigating anxiety, burnout, people-pleasing, trauma, and relationship challenges. You may struggle to set boundaries, quiet your inner critic, or feel like you’ve lost your sense of self. Therapy can help you feel more grounded, confident, and reconnected to your voice, your body, and your inner wisdom.
Defining You Therapy and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CCM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling stuck? Anxious? Like you’re carrying too much and can’t drop the ball?
You’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
At Defining You Therapy, we get it. Life comes at you fast - family pressure, relationship stress, anxiety that won’t quit, trauma that lingers longer than anyone talks about. And trying to keep it all together? That’s exhausting.
Here’s the thing: healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself. It’s about having the right support to navigate what’s heavy, confusing, or just plain hard.
Feeling stuck? Anxious? Like you’re carrying too much and can’t drop the ball?
You’re not alone and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
At Defining You Therapy, we get it. Life comes at you fast - family pressure, relationship stress, anxiety that won’t quit, trauma that lingers longer than anyone talks about. And trying to keep it all together? That’s exhausting.
Here’s the thing: healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself. It’s about having the right support to navigate what’s heavy, confusing, or just plain hard.
See more therapy options for Frederick
Nearby Suicidal Ideation Therapists Searches for Frederick
- Boonsboro
- Clarksburg
- Darnestown
- Gaithersburg
- Germantown
- Ijamsville
- Middletown
- Montgomery Village
- Mount Airy
- New Market
- Urbana
- Walkersville
Suicidal Ideation Therapists
How does therapy for suicidal ideation work?
Stress, depression, anxiety, or upsetting circumstances can give rise to suicidal thinking. Therapy can address the events at the core of an individual’s suffering. Understanding why a person may be suicidal can help the therapist and the patient discover alternative methods of coping. A person with suicidal ideation may be mired in catastrophic thinking, and treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy is a good choice for breaking such patterns. In addition, treatment such as acceptance and commitment therapy can help a person manage their distress through better emotion regulation.
Which therapies are best for suicidal ideation?
Specific approaches used by professionals include cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapies, among others. Cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapies are two widely used therapies that can help individuals with painful thoughts and past traumas. These therapies help an individual tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and not act on dangerous urges.
Are there specific medications to be combined with therapy?
The use of medication for suicidal thoughts must be aligned with the underlying cause; conditions such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis may be at the root of suicidal ideation. A psychiatrist may prescribe medications for symptoms, which may include antipsychotics such as aripiprazole or antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
How often and how long are therapy sessions for suicidal ideation?
As with any type of therapy, sessions depend on the individual. Patients may see improvement within 15 to 20 sessions, at an average of 50 minutes per session, while others may opt for 20 to 30 sessions over, perhaps, a six-month period. Still other patients, especially those with co-occurring conditions like major depression and anxiety, may need to continue sessions for up to 12 to 18 months. In some cases, residential treatment may be recommended for an individual who is judged to be at high risk of self-harm.


